eBay fraud

Through a collectors' discussion group, I've recently heard of attempts by parties unknown to purchase the accounts of established eBay sellers. Obviously, the would-be purchasers want to get a seller name with lots of good feedback, but I rather doubt it is the online equivalent of purchasing a going enterprise, complete with established goodwill. For if someone criminally inclined were to pay, say, $10,000 for a Power Seller's account and then started listing dozens of bogus items, it would likely take at least a couple of weeks before the defrauded buyers realized something was seriously amiss -- more than enough time to make the initial investment worthwhile.

From what I understand, eBay's rules do not permit the transfer of accounts, but I wonder if more could be done to emphasis the point. Like sending a warning message if eBay receives a request to change the registrant's name, email address, or credit card, pointing out that transferring an account is not only against eBay rules, but could leave the original account holder liable for any losses inflicted on eBay customers by the account buyer.

I've also seen evidence that eBay account password cracking is on the rise. The crooks apparently are targeting high positive feedback accounts that are not that active (though active accounts have been hijacked as well). So if you are registered with eBay, use a strong password: letters and numbers, and something you won't find in the dictionary.

PS If you've been deluged with emails purporting to come from eBay, telling you that you have to submit personal information confirmed or your account will be suspended, forward the notes straightaway to spoof@ebay.com.

Posted by David on October 22, 2003 10:36 AM